Ouarzazate & Ait Benhaddou Day Trip: A Traveler’s Honest Look

Okay, so you’re thinking about hopping on a full day excursion from Marrakech over to Ouarzazate and Ait Benhaddou? I mean, you probably should. Let’s talk about my personal experience on this very adventure! Picture it: me, a thirst for something other than the amazing-yet-similar scenes of Marrakech, and the promise of dramatic desert landscapes and maybe even movie magic calling my name. Honestly, the allure of seeing where bits of *Gladiator* and *Game of Thrones* were brought to life was seriously irresistible, like seriously.

The Winding Road: Marrakech to the Atlas Mountains

Now, right from the get-go, you have to expect a good chunk of the day to be, well, getting there. The drive, you see, involves some travel through the Atlas Mountains. Don’t get me wrong; that drive? Just so wonderful to look at! Imagine these majestic peaks all around you, snaking roads that give way to these unbelievable views… That part alone felt like an experience worth it. That being said, though, expect some winding roads – if you get car-sick at all, packing some motion-sickness meds is probably advisable, you see. The buses, at least mine did, often make comfort stops where you can grab a snack, coffee, you know, the essentials. Still, settle in; it’s something of a long day, to be sure.

Pro-Tip: the views, specifically during the early morning and late afternoon as the sun changes position, provide unbelievable photography opportunities. Keep your camera somewhere nearby! Seriously, it is important to keep your eyes peeled during the trip.

Ouarzazate: The Gateway to the Desert

So, Ouarzazate – it’s nicknamed “the door of the desert,” and once you’re there, well, you’ll understand pretty quickly why. It is, basically, the starting point for a ton of desert trips into the Sahara, too it’s got these movie studios that draw loads of people, like your’s truly. The excursion I joined incorporated a studio visit. Okay, it’s somewhat touristy, granted. But! Seeing props and sets from large films? Sort of neat! If film history and behind-the-scenes things don’t grab your interest, though, it is probably something you’d be fine missing, too.

Now, let me provide you some more ideas. The city has other appeals as well. There’s the Taourirt Kasbah, for example, an old fortress that shows how people once lived. You will see lots of design components. If you have more time when you are going on your own, investigate local marketplaces and try traditional Berber food.

Ait Benhaddou: Stepping Back in Time

The real gem of the excursion is Ait Benhaddou, I have to tell you. So, it is a fortified village – a *ksar* – and something of a UNESCO World Heritage spot. Honestly? Photographs don’t really fully capture how magnificent this location feels. As you wander through the winding alleyways, passing by mud-brick buildings, you basically feel transferred to another period. You understand why movies selected this place for scenes with something to gain! You can, in fact, almost imagine gladiators charging through the desert and dragons flying above. Seriously! Ait Benhaddou does draw a lot of crowds, particularly during top times, therefore it’s possible that the guide has information and suggestions about getting the most out of your time.

Guides will explain about the history, architectural designs, and tradition. Take note of where they take you! Some try to get you to stores. In certain instances, a trip is needed with the tour, so be mindful of what you would like. There can be more things to discover on the other side! Seriously, be smart when you agree on things.

What to Consider When Booking Your Trip

Now, there are so many trip organizers selling this adventure from Marrakech that finding the proper one might seem difficult. A couple things to consider are: the scale of your class (small group trips normally feel somewhat more intimate), if foods are included, and what is the guide’s standing as it pertains to background. Make certain to carefully look at feedback from previous vacationers to determine which tour providers provide the best experience! That’s what I did.

Think too that the climate is generally hot, particularly through summertime. Put on some sun block. Provide adequate hydration! Honor local traditions in dressing modestly! Getting Moroccan Dirham in modest increments to tip the guide is generally encouraged; nonetheless, it isn’t mandatory! When photographing, getting approval from locals makes certain that cultural sensitivity is generally exhibited by people visiting! At the conclusion of the adventure, your head should be buzzing from many insights!